Atlanta Dream Dominates Golden State Valkyries 97-71
Wednesday, October 21, 2026, 8:00 PM ET · State Farm Arena
Atlanta Dream 97, Golden State Valkyries 71, final. Our WNBA picks are sealed as a hash before kickoff and settled in public, losses included.
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Quick answers
Who won Golden State Valkyries vs Atlanta Dream?
Atlanta Dream beat Golden State Valkyries 97-71 at State Farm Arena on October 21, 2026.
Who was favored in Golden State Valkyries vs Atlanta Dream?
Atlanta Dream were the favorite at DraftKings, moneyline -185 (about 65% implied). The favorite won.
In a decisive matchup, the Atlanta Dream triumphed over the Golden State Valkyries with a final score of 97-71. This victory was significant as it marked the Dream's first win against the Valkyries in the current season, having previously lost their last two encounters. The Dream's performance at State Farm Arena showcased their strength, particularly given their impressive home record of 30-14 this season.
The Atlanta Dream entered this game with a strong recent form, boasting a record of 9-1 in their last ten games, including a current winning streak of one game. They have averaged 89.0 points scored while allowing 77.8 points per game during this stretch. Their last match before facing the Valkyries was a victory against the same team, where they won 79-65 on October 20, 2026. At home, the Dream maintained an unblemished record of 4-0 in their last four games, further solidifying their dominance on their home court.
In contrast, the Golden State Valkyries came into this game with a record of 7-3 over their last ten games, but they were on a one-game losing streak, having lost to the Dream just two days prior. The Valkyries averaged 81.3 points scored and allowed 78.7 points during their recent stretch. Their last five games saw them average 74.8 points scored and 72.2 points allowed, indicating a slight dip in offensive production.
Historically, the Valkyries have had the upper hand in their recent meetings with the Dream, winning the series 3-0 prior to this game. The last three encounters included two victories for the Valkyries in October 2026 and one earlier in the season, showcasing their ability to compete at a high level against Atlanta.
In terms of injuries, the Dream were missing key players Matilde Villa and Brionna Jones, the latter due to a leg injury, which could have impacted their lineup. The Valkyries also had Iliana Rupert out for non-injury-related reasons. Despite these absences, the Dream managed to execute their game plan effectively, leading to a commanding victory.
The betting market, as reported by DraftKings, had the Dream favored by 4.5 points, with a total set at 153.5. The odds indicated a strong belief in the Dream's ability to perform well at home, as they were listed with a moneyline of -185. The Valkyries, on the other hand, were underdogs with a moneyline of +154. The spread and total suggest that the game was expected to be competitive, but the Dream's execution on the court proved otherwise.
The conditions at State Farm Arena were favorable for basketball, contributing to an engaging atmosphere for fans. The Dream's ability to capitalize on their home advantage was evident as they took control of the game early and maintained their lead throughout.
Key moments in the game included strong performances from players like Sika Kone, who made critical shots in the fourth quarter, including a three-point jumper that extended the Dream's lead. The scoring plays highlighted the Dream's offensive efficiency, particularly in the final period, where they outscored the Valkyries significantly. The Dream's defense also played a crucial role, limiting the Valkyries to just 71 points, showcasing their ability to stifle opposing offenses.
As the game concluded, the Dream's victory not only boosted their confidence but also provided a crucial win against a team that had previously dominated them. With the final score of 97-71, the Dream demonstrated their potential as serious contenders in the league, especially with their strong home record and recent form.
What we said beforehand
The upcoming matchup between the Atlanta Dream and the Golden State Valkyries is noteworthy as the Valkyries have won all three previous meetings in the current series. This game will take place at State Farm Arena on October 22, 2026. The Dream enter this contest with a home record of 30-14, while the Valkyries boast an away record of 32-12, making this a compelling clash between two strong teams.
In their last five games, the Atlanta Dream have shown strong form, winning four out of five. They recently secured victories against the New York Liberty, with scores of 92-82, 101-98 in overtime, and 85-83. However, they faced the Valkyries twice, losing one game 68-64 and winning the most recent encounter 79-65. The Dream's scoring average over their last five games is 84.2 points, while they have allowed an average of 79.2 points. At home, they have been particularly dominant, with a record of 9-1 in their last ten games, averaging 89.0 points scored and allowing 77.8 points.
The Golden State Valkyries, on the other hand, have a record of 7-3 in their last ten games, but they are coming off a loss to the Dream, where they scored only 65 points. Their recent victories include a series of wins against the Las Vegas Aces, with scores of 71-60, 83-81, and 87-77 in overtime. Their average scoring in the last five games is 74.8 points, with an average of 72.2 points allowed. The Valkyries have struggled on the road, holding a 2-2 record in away games recently.
In terms of injuries, the Atlanta Dream will be without Matilde Villa due to a coach's decision and Brionna Jones, who is out with a leg injury. The Golden State Valkyries will miss Iliana Rupert, who is out for non-injury-related reasons. These absences could significantly impact the teams' strategies and performances.
The betting market, as provided by DraftKings, has set the spread at Atlanta Dream -4.5, with a total of 153.5 for the game. The moneyline shows the Dream at -180.0 and the Valkyries at 150.0, indicating a slight favor towards the Dream in this matchup.
As for conditions, the game will take place indoors at State Farm Arena, ensuring a controlled environment for both teams. Viewers should watch for Allisha Gray of the Dream, who leads her team in scoring with an average of 19.0 points, and Jordin Canada, who leads in assists with 7.3. For the Valkyries, Gabby Williams is the scoring leader with 14.4 points, while Veronica Burton leads in assists with 5.7.
This matchup promises to be an exciting contest as the Atlanta Dream look to leverage their home advantage against the Golden State Valkyries, who aim to continue their winning streak in the series.
Odds
| Book | Spread | Total | Moneyline |
|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | ATL -4.5 | 153.5 o -105 / u -115 | Golden State Valkyries +154 · Atlanta Dream -185 |
Injury report
- Matilde VillaOutCoach's DecisionAtlanta Dream
- Brionna JonesOutLegAtlanta Dream
- Iliana RupertOutNot Injury RelatedGolden State Valkyries
Leaders
- PointsAngel Reese21Atlanta Dream
- AssistsJordin Canada8Atlanta Dream
- ReboundsAngel Reese12Atlanta Dream
- PointsGabby Williams15Golden State Valkyries
- AssistsGabby Williams8Golden State Valkyries
- ReboundsKiah Stokes11Golden State Valkyries
Recent form
Atlanta Dream
Last 10: 9-1Streak W189 scored · 77.8 allowed per game4-0 at home
- W79-65at Golden State ValkyriesOct 20
- L64-68at Golden State ValkyriesOct 17
- W85-83at New York LibertyOct 9
- W101-98vs New York LibertyOct 7
- W92-82vs New York LibertyOct 4
- W93-75at Washington MysticsSep 30
- W92-77vs Washington MysticsSep 27
- W83-65at New York LibertySep 24
- W95-84at New York LibertySep 22
- W106-81vs Chicago SkySep 19
Golden State Valkyries
Last 10: 7-3Streak L181.3 scored · 78.7 allowed per game2-2 away
- L65-79vs Atlanta DreamOct 20
- W68-64vs Atlanta DreamOct 17
- W87-77at Las Vegas AcesOct 10
- W83-81vs Las Vegas AcesOct 8
- W71-60vs Las Vegas AcesOct 4
- W77-73vs Dallas WingsOct 3
- L100-108at Dallas WingsOct 1
- W104-80vs Dallas WingsSep 28
- W76-75at Los Angeles SparksSep 25
- L82-90at Portland FireSep 23
Standings
| Team | Games behind | Lost | Streak | Win % | Won |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | - | 11 | W1 | .750 | 33 |
| Golden State | 1 | 12 | W1 | .727 | 32 |
| Las Vegas | 2 | 13 | W7 | .705 | 31 |
| Dallas | 6 | 17 | W1 | .614 | 27 |
| Portland | 16 | 27 | W1 | .386 | 17 |
| Los Angeles | 17 | 28 | L2 | .364 | 16 |
| Phoenix | 17 | 28 | L1 | .364 | 16 |
| Seattle | 25 | 36 | L5 | .182 | 8 |
| Atlanta | - | 14 | W5 | .682 | 30 |
| Washington | 2 | 16 | W4 | .636 | 28 |
| Indiana | 2 | 16 | L1 | .636 | 28 |
| New York | 4 | 18 | L2 | .591 | 26 |
| Chicago | 14 | 28 | L1 | .364 | 16 |
| Toronto | 19 | 33 | L8 | .250 | 11 |
| Connecticut | 19 | 33 | W1 | .250 | 11 |
Box score
| Stat | Golden State Valkyries | Atlanta Dream |
|---|---|---|
| Field goals | 24-69 | 34-69 |
| Field goal % | 35 | 49 |
| Three-pointers | 12-30 | 9-22 |
| Three-point % | 40 | 41 |
| Free throws | 11-17 | 20-29 |
| Free throw % | 65 | 69 |
| Rebounds | 34 | 37 |
| Offensive rebounds | 9 | 6 |
| Defensive rebounds | 25 | 31 |
| Assists | 19 | 26 |
| Steals | 6 | 9 |
| Blocks | 5 | 4 |
| Turnovers | 15 | 8 |
| Team turnovers | 2 | 2 |
| Technical fouls | 1 | 0 |
| Technical fouls, total | 1 | 0 |
| Flagrant fouls | 0 | 0 |
| Points off turnovers | 22 | 7 |
| Fast-break points | 5 | 13 |
| Points in the paint | 20 | 44 |
| Fouls | 21 | 17 |
| Largest lead | 0 | 26 |
| Lead changes | 0 | 0 |
| Time in front | 0 | 94 |
How the scoring went
- 3rd Quarter49-52Angel Reese makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter49-53Angel Reese makes free throw 2 of 2
- 3rd Quarter49-55Isobel Borlase makes driving layup (Angel Reese assists)
- 3rd Quarter49-57Angel Reese makes running layup
- 3rd Quarter51-57Tiffany Hayes makes 11-foot driving floating jump shot (Gabby Williams assists)
- 3rd Quarter51-59Jordin Canada makes 3-foot two point shot
- 3rd Quarter52-59Aminata Gueye makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter53-59Aminata Gueye makes free throw 2 of 2
- 3rd Quarter55-59Tiffany Hayes makes driving layup (Kaitlyn Chen assists)
- 3rd Quarter55-62DeWanna Bonner makes 24-foot three point jumper (Rhyne Howard assists)
- 3rd Quarter55-64Isobel Borlase makes running layup
- 3rd Quarter55-66DeWanna Bonner makes 11-foot two point shot (Allisha Gray assists)
- 3rd Quarter57-66Janelle Salaun makes 14-foot two point shot (Kaitlyn Chen assists)
- 3rd Quarter57-68Jordin Canada makes 3-foot two point shot (Allisha Gray assists)
- 3rd Quarter57-69Jordin Canada makes technical free throw
- 3rd Quarter57-71Naz Hillmon makes 4-foot layup (Allisha Gray assists)
- 4th Quarter57-73Naz Hillmon makes 1-foot layup (Angel Reese assists)
- 4th Quarter60-73Veronica Burton makes 24-foot three point jumper (Gabby Williams assists)
- 4th Quarter60-74Rhyne Howard makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter60-75Rhyne Howard makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter60-77Naz Hillmon makes driving layup (Jordin Canada assists)
- 4th Quarter60-78Rhyne Howard makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter60-79Rhyne Howard makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter60-80Rhyne Howard makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter62-80Kiah Stokes makes layup (Gabby Williams assists)
- 4th Quarter65-80Gabby Williams makes 24-foot running jump shot (Veronica Burton assists)
- 4th Quarter65-82Isobel Borlase makes 6-foot driving floating jump shot (Allisha Gray assists)
- 4th Quarter65-84Jordin Canada makes driving layup
- 4th Quarter65-86DeWanna Bonner makes running layup (Isobel Borlase assists)
- 4th Quarter65-87Isobel Borlase makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter67-87Gabby Williams makes 15-foot turnaround jump shot
- 4th Quarter67-88Angel Reese makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter67-89Angel Reese makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter69-89Kaitlyn Chen makes 13-foot pullup jump shot (Juste Jocyte assists)
- 4th Quarter69-92Sika Kone makes 24-foot three point jumper (Te-Hina Paopao assists)
- 4th Quarter69-94Madina Okot makes 7-foot two point shot (Sika Kone assists)
- 4th Quarter69-95Madina Okot makes free throw 1 of 1
- 4th Quarter70-95Kaila Charles makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter71-95Kaila Charles makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter71-97Sika Kone makes 6-foot driving floating jump shot (Madina Okot assists)
Win probability
Above the line favours Atlanta Dream, below favours Golden State Valkyries.
Venue
- State Farm ArenaAtlanta, GA
- Attendance17099
- OfficialsFatou Cissoko-Stephens, Ryan Sassano, Amy Bonner
Elsewhere
- Angel Reese tops fashionable arrivals ahead of Game 3 of WNBA Finals
- Enes Kanter Freedom denied entry to Game 3 of WNBA Finals after declining suite
- WNBA Finals live: Valkyries-Dream Game 3 analysis, updates and highlights
- Inside the Boca training camp that spurred the Dream's WNBA Finals run
- WNBA games today: Dream-Valkyries time, where to watch
- Atlanta Dream rookie Madina Okot staying ready for her call in WNBA Finals
- WNBA Finals 2026: Valkyries vs. Dream schedule, scores, more
- WNBA championship and Finals MVP odds: Dream the favorites after Game 2 win
WNBA rules and settlement
These two, other days
- Valkyries Edge Dream in Close ContestOct 31, 2026
- Atlanta Dream Defeats Golden State Valkyries 80-69Oct 29, 2026
- Valkyries Defeat Dream in WNBA ShowdownOct 26, 2026
- Golden State Valkyries Edge Atlanta Dream 67-62Oct 24, 2026
- Atlanta Dream Defeats Golden State Valkyries 79-65Oct 19, 2026